Although anxiety is a normal reaction to any stressful situation that makes us feel apprehensive or uneasy, it becomes harmful when it begins to interfere with everyday life. In both Canada and the United States, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses. It is important to help your teenager cope with anxiety whether they struggle with a harmful level or not.

There are many reasons for teenagers to feel anxiety including negative self talk, insecurity, inconsistency, perfectionism and meaninglessness. Even “little” things like Read More

One of the best ways we can prepare our teens for success as adults is to help them develop self-regulation. More than intellectual abilities, athletic skills or musical talents, self-control enables focus and determination. A person with self-control can resist distraction and stay focused through difficult circumstances.Read More

We all enter parenting with fear and trepidation. During the early years, we follow our little ones around with pride and protection. Fearful of missing a photo opportunity, we barely remove our attention as they smile, crawl or walk for the first time.

By the time the teenage years arrive, we’re tired! We’ve invested so much time and energy. They have learned so much. They are capable of so many things. And they look like young adults. We mourn the loss of childhood and feel our opportunities for maximum parenting impact are over, right?Read More

Parenting is hard work no matter what the age, gender or energy level of your child. For many parents, the teenage years seem to raise the stress to a whole new level because of the unique level of change, growth and turmoil experienced by the child (see What Happened to my Kid?).

These can be difficult years to be sure! It’s hard not to be overwhelmed! However, Read More

Parenting an angry teenager is difficult. Teenagers’ emotions can swing from joy to anger with surprising speed and intensity. This is a natural part of the stage of maturity they are going through. And it can be very frustrating for the teenager as well as parents and the rest of the family!

When anger becomes a deeper issue, outbursts are more frequent and every interaction can feel hostile. The home really does feel like a battlefield.

There is hope! When intense feelings are involved, there is evidence of a desire for something better. Following are 11 suggestions to help you help your angry child work through the anger and find better ways to manage it.Read More